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Arthritis in Dogs and Cats

Signs, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of arthritis in dogs and cats

By , About.com Guide

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Learning the signs of arthritis in dogs and cats is the first step to recognizing the problem and helping your pet stay comfortable as they age. Learn about arthritis in dogs and cats - the signs, diagnosis, treatment options and ways to prevent further joint damage, including maintaining a healthy weight for your pet.

1. Causes and Symptoms of Arthritis in Cats

Lorie Huston DVM

Arthritis is commonly encountered in cats, particularly in older cats. However, the signs of feline arthritis are often subtle and difficult to spot, even for the most dedicated of cat owners.

2. Causes and Symptoms of Arthritis in Dogs

Chris Harriot/Flickr.com

Arthritis is a disease that can affect any joint causing pain and discomfort. Dogs suffering from arthritis experience pain resulting from the damage within the joint. The symptoms experienced are a direct result of the pain but may be subtle, especially in the early stages.

3. Caring for Your Arthritic Cat

Lorie Huston DVM
Arthritic cats may not openly show their pain, but arthritis is a painful condition. There are several things a cat owner can do make the home more amenable to and comfortable for an arthritic cat.

4. Caring for Your Arthritic Dog

eLLenTY/Flickr.com
Arthritic dogs need special care at home to make their lives easier and more comfortable. Find out what you can do for your arthritic dog.

5. Treating Arthritis in Cats

Lorie Huston DVM
Arthritis causes pain and relieving that pain becomes a major objective in the treatment of any arthritic cat. However, cats tend to hide the signs of their pain quite effectively, making it difficult to decide whether treatment is necessary. If you are in doubt about whether your cat is in pain, assume that he is and treat him.

6. Treating Arthritis in Dogs

Dakota O./Flickr.com
Most of the symptoms seen in dogs with arthritis result from pain. As a result, treatment for arthritis in dogs is geared toward reducing pain and maintaining muscle mass and joint mobility. This is best accomplished by using a combination of treatments rather than relying on only one medication or treatment option.

7. Preventing Arthritis in Dogs and Cats

Lorie Huston DVM
Preventing arthritis from becoming a problem for your dog or cat may not an entirely realistic goal. However, there are a few things that a pet owner can do to at least help reduce the risk and even lessen the severity of disease if it does occur.

8. Readers Respond: Share your tips to keep arthritic pets comfortable

Walking the Dog by Nancy Wombat on Flickrby Nancy Wombat on Flickr
Have you noticed signs of arthritis in your pet? What sign(s) did you notice first? Did you visit your vet to help keep your pet comfortable? What worked for your pet? Please share your arthritis stories, tips and words of encouragement here.

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